AYAKA “Zombie” Miura is preparing for the most important fight of her career when she challenges Denice “The Menace” Zamboanga for the ONE Atomweight MMA World Title at ONE 173: Superbon vs Noiri on November 16.
Ahead of this highly anticipated five-round war at Ariake Arena in Tokyo, Japan, the Japanese star took note of Zamboanga’s astonishing growth as a complete martial artist.
“At first, I thought she was mainly a grappler, but in recent fights her striking has really improved. Now I see her as a complete all-rounder. She also looks physically very strong,” Miura said.
With her signature “Ayaka Lock” submission becoming increasingly scouted by opponents, Miura expects Zamboanga to come prepared for her devastating ground game.
The feared submission specialist knows this fight could unfold anywhere. If push comes to shove, Miura will be ready to showcase her underrated stand-up game against the Filipina champion.
“I believe Zamboanga will come in with a solid ground defense strategy and try to turn it into a striking battle. Whether it’s on the feet or on the ground—even if the fight gets messy—I’ll do whatever it takes to win,” Miura offered.
Miura’s incredible hot streak since moving to atomweight has been nothing short of spectacular.
The former ONE Women’s Strawweight MMA World Title challenger has won five straight, with four of those victories coming by way of submission.
That marvelous run has positioned “Zombie” for this career-defining moment in front of her devoted Japanese fans.
The Tribe Tokyo MMA affiliate also believes there’s a deeper meaning behind receiving this opportunity at home.
“I’m truly happy to be able to fight in a world title match here in Japan, where I was born and raised—and especially grateful for the surprise announcement from CEO Chatri. I believe there’s meaning behind being given this opportunity. I will become the first Japanese woman to win a ONE Championship belt, and I’ll do it right here in Japan,” Miura said.
“I believe the fact that I was given this title shot in Japan means it’s my time to win. I used to think the location didn’t matter, but now that I’ve been given this chance in Japan, I truly feel this is the moment I’m meant to take the belt,” she added.
Meanwhile, Japanese fighters have been making waves in the home of martial arts, with ONE Featherweight Kickboxing World Champion Masaaki Noiri and ONE Flyweight MMA World Champion Yuya Wakamatsu claiming world titles in Japan last May.
Needless to say, Miura wants to join their ranks. “Zombie” concluded:
“Having a world title match prepared for me on a Japan card—I truly feel this is a big opportunity. I will seize it without fail. I wasn’t able to get the strawweight title before, but this time, I’ll get what I left behind. I’ll prove the strength of Japanese fighters by winning the belt on home soil.”
